September 12, 2013

Dwayne Harris is hoping for more offensive snaps after getting four against Giants

Dwayne Harris played only four offensive snaps against the Giants on Sunday. But he may have earned himself some more with his play on special teams combined with Terrance Williams' rookie struggles with the offense.

Williams, who played 36 snaps as the third receiver, dropped two passes and ran a wrong route that led to an interception. Owner Jerry Jones and coach Jason Garrett both said Harris has earned more chances on offense.

That is music to Harris' ears.

"I would hope so. I would hope so," Harris said. "But it’s not my choice. The coaches, they do the game plan every week. So whatever they feel like I should do that week, that’s what I’m going to do."

Harris took advantage of his opportunities late last season. After not having a catch in the first nine games, Harris had 17 receptions for 222 yards and a touchdown in the final seven games.

But his speciality is special teams. He made the team -- and his mark -- last season with a 16.1-yard punt return average, returning one for a touchdown. Harris didn't get many chances Sunday against the Giants, returning two for a 9.5-yard average. But he still earned NFC special teams player of the week honors with three special teams tackles while playing 22 snaps on special teams.

"Obviously being a punt returner, I like to make plays with the ball in my hands," Harris said. "But it feels good just to get down there and make a tackle. It’s always exciting in the heat of the game and the moment. It always feels good just to go down and make plays."

It was the second time Harris has won NFC special teams player of the week honors. He had returns of 37 and 78 against the Eagles last October to take home the award.

"It means a lot," Harris said. "It means I’m doing my job, and the guys around me are helping me do my job in helping me cover. It’s a great feeling. I give all the praise to them, because without them I couldn’t get down there and make a tackle."

Harris said the NFL doesn't give its players of the week anything other than positive publicity. So he doesn't have anything to show for his two honors.

"I think it’s just national coverage," he said with a smile. "NFC player of the week, and that’s it. You don’t get a plaque or a piece of paper or anything. They just tell you, and that’s it."